How To Write A Video Production Brief

A video production brief is simply an outline of what you want in terms of a video. It is a set of guidelines for a video production company to work from.

Writing a video production brief isn’t very difficult or time consuming to do. A comprehensive one page summary is usually more than enough to get started. This summary should contain the following:

1. The purpose of your video

What do you want to use your video for? Where will it be shown or watched? This will influence the choice of content, its length, and overall style of the programme. Is it a promotional video? Is it a product demonstration? Is it a training video?

2. Target audiences

Who do you want to watch your video? Is it destined for one or multiple audiences? The audience and their environment will have a big impact on the type of vide produced.

3. Key messages

You need to have a clear idea of the messages you want to convey. Your message should consist of no more than three points, the simpler the better. What does your audience need or want to hear? What do they already know?

4. Video length

This will be related to the purpose of your video and the target audience. Your message should be clear and concise. 2 minutes is usually enough for a promotional video.

5. Narration

How do you want your video to be narrated? Would you like to use a professional voice over or authentic testimonials? Either of these techniques can be used to convey your key messages.

6. Shoot locations

The number of filming locations has logistical and cost implications. If your organisation is based on a number of sites, multi-filming locations may be unavoidable.

7. Your deadline

Your video will be one of many your video production company is working on. The more notice you give the video production company the better. Specify a date when you need the final version of your video finished and delivered.